Jump To: May 1 – 3 | May 8 – 10 | May 15 – 17 | May 22 – 24 | May 29 – 31
May in Houston and Galveston ushers in a vibrant month of events, and I can’t wait to get my spring spirit on and fully embrace May with these events.
My guide highlights some of the best events happening throughout May, from new shows to look forward to to lively festivals and markets. Whether you’re looking to celebrate local heritage, find a unique art piece, or enjoy a joyous night out, you’ll find plenty to do on the calendar.
This month’s highlights include the Raye – This Tour May Contain New Music, Flea by Night, and more!
This monthly roundup is grouped by date range, with quick summaries to help you scan and plan.
Editor’s Note: We work hard to provide the most up-to-date information. However, all information is subject to change! As always, please verify with the organizer before heading out!
Also, please note that this article may contain affiliate links. If you click an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products and services that we genuinely believe will benefit our readers!
In case you are wondering about the choice of listings in this article, here is how we make our recommendations.
Also check out our articles on Date Night Ideas Houston, Sports Bars in Houston, and Best Summer Camps in Greater Houston.
Top Pick – La Izquierda Surf & Music Festival
Image Credit: visitgalveston.com
Celebrate Galveston’s coastal culture at the La Izquierda Surf & Music Festival (Izzy Fest). This three-day “Third Coast” celebration features a unique longboard surf contest, over 20 live musical acts, and a vibrant local art market, all while supporting beach preservation and the island’s creative spirit.
Enjoy performances by artists like Alex Maas and the Lost Bayou Ramblers, browse local vendors, and catch the “Eddie Aikau” style surf competition on the sand.
When: Friday, May 1 – Saturday, May 2, 2026 | Fri: 2 pm – 11 pm, Sat: 9 am – 11 pm
Where: Beach Central (Main Stage) & 21st and Seawall (Beach Stage), Galveston, TX 77550
How Much: $30 General Admission (Weekend Pass); $100 VIP; Kids 10 and under are free
Events in Houston for Adults – May 1 – 3, 2026
LULAC Cinco de Mayo Fiesta – Celebrate Mexican heritage and community spirit at the LULAC Cinco de Mayo Fiesta. After a 30-year hiatus, the festivities return to the island with a vibrant downtown parade featuring decorated floats and creative costumes, followed by a lively fiesta at the grounds with live music, local vendors, and authentic food.
Image Credit: visitgalveston.com
‘Enchantment’ – Step into the intimate world of Ravi Shankar in Enchantment. Experience a powerful blend of theatre, live dance, and music featuring Shankar’s original recordings and exclusive compositions performed by Bombay Jayashri with Aditya Prakash, Vignesh Ishwar, and Chaitra Sairam.
Color Factory’s Colors in Bloom – Celebrate the arrival of spring at Color Factory’s limited-time Colors in Bloom confetti installation. Stroll through vibrant displays, enjoy seasonal treats, capture new photo ops, and dive into a spring-themed confetti room inspired by Houston’s iconic cactus blossoms.
Image credit: Color Factory
K?vya: Poetry in Motion – Experience K?vya: Poetry in Motion, an original Silambam Houston production by Artistic Director Lavanya Rajagopalan that blends music, dance, and poetry into a powerful artistic expression.
RAYE – THIS TOUR MAY CONTAIN NEW MUSIC – Catch UK pop star RAYE live as she delivers her signature mix of R&B, blues, and hip-hop.
Image credit: RAYE
WorldFest Houston International Film Festival – Experience the legacy of independent cinema at the WorldFest Houston International Film Festival, which will feature diverse stories from around the globe while the festival continues its mission of supporting emerging filmmakers and shaping the future of cinema.
Yoga in the Bamboo Garden – Find calm and movement at “Bamboo Bliss,” a unique yoga session in the serene bamboo garden at Asia Society Texas.
Galveston Historic Homes Tour – Step inside Galveston’s architectural past during the annual Galveston Historic Homes Tour, where privately owned historic homes open their doors to the public.
Legends of Laughter – Get ready for nonstop laughs at NRG Arena when comedy powerhouses Sommore, Earthquake, Lavell Crawford, and Don DC Curry take the stage for the Legends of Laughter show.
Museum District Walk – Join Asia Society Texas and Fit Houston for a guided walk through Houston’s Museum District and Hermann Park led by Executive Director Lharissa Jacobs.
Flip Circus – Step under the big top for Flip Circus, an intimate new show from the Vazquez family featuring world-class performers including illusionist Jimmy Saylon, comedian Misha, juggler Dede Larible, trapeze artist Alexander Lichner, and more.
Performing Arts Houston presents Rhiannon Giddens – Experience the Houston debut of Grammy and Pulitzer Prize winner Rhiannon Giddens as she takes the stage with music from her celebrated career.
Art Factory presents Cabaret – Enter a Berlin nightclub where pleasure and danger collide in Cabaret, as an American writer becomes entangled with the captivating Sally Bowles and a community determined to keep dancing while the world edges toward catastrophe.
Carlos Vives in concert – See Latin music icon Carlos Vives perform live as he brings decades of hits from his 18-album career to the stage.
The Makers in Bloom Market – Explore the Makers in Bloom Market at Grand Central Park and browse local vendors offering artisanal clothing, jewelry, home décor, baked goods, and more.
The Barber of Seville – Experience Rossini’s wildly entertaining The Barber of Seville, packed with outrageous disguises, secret letters, and clever schemes. Follow Figaro as he helps Count Almaviva outwit Dr. Bartolo and win the heart of Rosina in this lively production directed by Joan Font.
Image credit: Houston Grand Opera
August Wilson’s Fences – Watch the legendary Tony Award-winning drama Fences and follow the powerful story of a former baseball player struggling with unfulfilled dreams and racial prejudice. See the bonds of family and the challenges of parenthood tested as the characters pursue happiness amidst the harsh realities of life.
Main Street Theater presents Leopoldstadt – Experience the vibrant atmosphere of 1900 Vienna through Main Street Theater’s powerful production of Leopoldstadt. Follow multiple generations of a family as they navigate fifty years of history, grappling with a heritage they cannot escape and a future beyond their control.
ARTECHOUSE presents Blooming Wonders: A Celebration of Spring – Step into 26,000 square feet of cutting-edge galleries at ARTECHOUSE Houston to explore Blooming Wonders, a vibrant digital garden that awakens through your movement and play.
First Saturday Arts Market – Explore a diverse array of original paintings, sculptures, and jewelry as Houston’s original outdoor art market resumes its 21st season.
Drunk Shakespeare presents Drunk Romeo & Juliet – Witness the Drunk Shakespeare Society’s production of Drunk Romeo & Juliet, where one professional actor downs five shots of whiskey before attempting to perform Shakespeare’s greatest tragedy.
Events in Houston for Adults – May 8 – 10, 2026
Chelcie Lynn: Trailer Trash Tammy The Loose Lips Tour – Catch Chelcie Lynn live as she brings her outrageous Trailer Trash Tammy character to the stage for The Loose Lips Tour.
Punch Line Houston presents Jason Salmon – See Texas-born, NYC-based comedian Jason Salmon live as he delivers his sharp stand-up style on stage. Known for his comedy specials and appearances across television, film, and video games, Salmon brings quick wit and seasoned storytelling to the mic.
Dave Matthews Band in concert – Experience Dave Matthews Band live as the legendary group performs music from across their celebrated career, including songs from their latest album Walk Around the Moon.
Image credit: Dave Matthews Band
Clear Lake Symphony presents Spring “Classics” Concert – Enjoy an evening of timeless orchestral music as the Clear Lake Symphony performs its Spring “Classics” Concert. The program features celebrated works by Smetana, Wagner, and Mozart performed by the talented local orchestra.
Live at the Founders Club: & Broadway – Spend an evening with Broadway star Teal Wicks as she performs songs and shares stories from her career on stage and beyond, including songs from Jekyll and Hyde, The Cher Show, Finding Neverland, Wicked, and more, accompanied by music director Steven Jamail on piano.
StringzAttached presents Omari Dillard: Peace and Presence Tour – Listen to Omari Dillard live as he blends violin with R&B, soul, and cinematic sounds during his Peace and Presence Tour.
We Them One’s Comedy Tour – Get ready for a huge night of comedy as the We Them One’s Comedy Tour brings a lineup of standout comedians, including Mike Epps, DC Young Fly, Karlous Miller, Chico Bean, and more.
Bodies Race Company presents Hometown Half Marathon/10K/5K – Challenge yourself at the Hometown Half Marathon, 10K, or 5K hosted by Bodies Race Company.
Image credit: runsignup
Flip Circus – Step under the big top for Flip Circus, an intimate new show from the Vazquez family featuring world-class performers including illusionist Jimmy Saylon, comedian Misha, juggler Dede Larible, trapeze artist Alexander Lichner, and more.
The Barber of Seville – Experience Rossini’s wildly entertaining The Barber of Seville, packed with outrageous disguises, secret letters, and clever schemes. Follow Figaro as he helps Count Almaviva outwit Dr. Bartolo and win the heart of Rosina in this lively production directed by Joan Font.
Galveston Historic Homes Tour – Step inside Galveston’s architectural past during the annual Galveston Historic Homes Tour, where privately owned historic homes open their doors to the public.
August Wilson’s Fences – Watch the legendary Tony Award-winning drama Fences and follow the powerful story of a former baseball player struggling with unfulfilled dreams and racial prejudice. See the bonds of family and the challenges of parenthood tested as the characters pursue happiness amidst the harsh realities of life.
ARTECHOUSE presents Blooming Wonders: A Celebration of Spring – Step into 26,000 square feet of cutting-edge galleries at ARTECHOUSE Houston to explore Blooming Wonders, a vibrant digital garden that awakens through your movement and play.
Drunk Shakespeare presents Drunk Romeo & Juliet – Witness the Drunk Shakespeare Society’s production of Drunk Romeo & Juliet, where one professional actor downs five shots of whiskey before attempting to perform Shakespeare’s greatest tragedy.
The Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery Dinner Show – Enjoy an evening of laughter, suspense, and a full-plated dinner as award-winning actors blend into the audience for a mystery that unfolds right at your table.
Events in Houston for Adults – May 15 – 17, 2026
2026 Houston Scotch Whisky Society Spring Spirits & Drams Delight – A Scotch Whisky Tasting Experience – Raise a glass at the 2026 Spring Spirits & Drams Delight, where the Houston Scotch Whisky Society and Scotch Whisky USA bring together more than 60 whisky brands and over 90 expressions for an evening of rare pours and unforgettable tastings.
Houston Spring Market – Explore the Houston Spring Market, where independent artists and makers gather to showcase unique creations across home décor, fashion, art, design, food, and more.
Image credit: Markets for Makers
Flea by Night presented by Green Mountain Energy – Shop local at Flea by Night, an open-air market at Discovery Green where artists, makers, and small businesses showcase vintage finds, handmade goods, and one-of-a-kind creations.
Image credit: Discovery Green
Naomi Watanabe: From Tokyo – Catch comedian Naomi Watanabe live as she brings her eccentric personality and humor to the stage at the House of Blues. Known for her bold style and comedic flair, Watanabe delivers a performance packed with big laughs.
YAGP Junior Final Round – Watch some of the world’s most talented young dancers take the stage at the YAGP Junior Final Round in Houston. After thousands of auditions worldwide, finalists in the Junior and Senior divisions perform one last time before winners and scholarship recipients are announced.
20th Annual Empty Bowls Houston – Support the fight against hunger at the 20th Annual Empty Bowls Houston, a grassroots fundraiser benefiting the Houston Food Bank. This unique community event brings together local artists, live demonstrations, music, and a light lunch served in handcrafted bowls.
Image credit: Empty Bowls Houston
Improv Houston presents Shuler King – See comedian Shuler King live as he delivers his signature raw and unfiltered comedy on stage. Known for balancing life as both a comedian and funeral director, King draws on personal experiences and sharp observations for his distinctive comedic style.
Smart Financial Centre presents Jeff Foxworthy – Spend an evening with comedy legend Jeff Foxworthy as he brings his iconic stand-up to the stage. Known for his record-breaking comedy albums, Grammy nominations, and bestselling books, Foxworthy delivers the sharp humor that made him one of America’s most recognized comedians.
Bobby Lee: The Finally Tour – Catch comedian and actor Bobby Lee live as he brings his Finally Tour to the stage for a night of bold, unpredictable stand-up.
Flip Circus – Step under the big top for Flip Circus, an intimate new show from the Vazquez family featuring world-class performers including illusionist Jimmy Saylon, comedian Misha, juggler Dede Larible, trapeze artist Alexander Lichner, and more.
ARTECHOUSE presents Blooming Wonders: A Celebration of Spring – Step into 26,000 square feet of cutting-edge galleries at ARTECHOUSE Houston to explore Blooming Wonders, a vibrant digital garden that awakens through your movement and play.
Drunk Shakespeare presents Drunk Romeo & Juliet – Witness the Drunk Shakespeare Society’s production of Drunk Romeo & Juliet, where one professional actor downs five shots of whiskey before attempting to perform Shakespeare’s greatest tragedy.
Events in Houston for Adults – May 22 – 24, 2026
X1 Entertainment presents: Back To The Barre Live – Houston – Join Dance Moms favorites Christi and Kelly for Back To The Barre LIVE, an interactive night filled with Dance Moms recaps, exclusive commentary, games, and surprises.
Punch Line Houston presents Radel Ortiz – Catch Dominican-American comedian Radel Ortiz live as he brings his viral humor and sharp storytelling to the stage. Known for his massive social media following and distinctive voice in Latinx comedy, Ortiz delivers a high-energy stand-up performance.
Pitbull in concert – See Pitbull live as the global superstar brings his I’m Back tour to The Woodlands in support of his 2025 album Underdogs.
Beautiful: The Carole King Musical – Experience Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, a stage production that traces the remarkable journey of legendary singer-songwriter Carole King. The show celebrates her rise to fame through the timeless songs that shaped an era of music.
Image credit: tuts
Flip Circus – Step under the big top for Flip Circus, an intimate new show from the Vazquez family featuring world-class performers including illusionist Jimmy Saylon, comedian Misha, juggler Dede Larible, trapeze artist Alexander Lichner, and more.
ARTECHOUSE presents Blooming Wonders: A Celebration of Spring – Step into 26,000 square feet of cutting-edge galleries at ARTECHOUSE Houston to explore Blooming Wonders, a vibrant digital garden that awakens through your movement and play.
Drunk Shakespeare presents Drunk Romeo & Juliet – Witness the Drunk Shakespeare Society’s production of Drunk Romeo & Juliet, where one professional actor downs five shots of whiskey.
Events in Houston for Adults – May 29 – 31, 2026
Misery – Step into the suspense of Stephen King’s Misery as a famous author finds himself trapped by his obsessive “number one fan” after a car crash. This gripping stage thriller follows a chilling battle of survival as admiration spirals into terrifying control.
BADDLANDS FEST HOUSTON – Experience BADDLANDS FEST HOUSTON, a multi-city festival celebrating the intersection of art, music, culture, and technology. The event brings together live music, DJ performances, art exhibitions, and a curated vendor market featuring local creators.
International Festival – Celebrate cultures from around the world at the International Festival of the United States of America, known as iFest USA. This vibrant event highlights multicultural traditions through performances, food, art, and community experiences.
Improv Houston presents Tim Meadows – Spend an evening with comedian and actor Tim Meadows as he brings his stand-up to the stage. Best known for his long-running tenure on Saturday Night Live, Meadows delivers the comedic style that made him a fan favorite.
Houston Symphony presents “Lights! Camera! Music! 100 Years of Epic Film Scores” – Relive the magic of cinema as the Houston Symphony performs iconic movie soundtracks spanning a century of film history. The orchestra and chorus bring legendary scores to life, celebrating the music behind some of Hollywood’s most unforgettable moments.
Houston Chamber Choir presents “Open-ish Mic Night” – See a different side of the Houston Chamber Choir at “Open-ish Mic Night,” where members perform pop songs and show tunes as soloists and in small groups. The evening also welcomes surprise performances from members of the Houston community.
Houston Ballet presents An Evening with the Stars – Experience a powerful ballet performance as Stanton Welch AM’s Sylvia unfolds a dramatic tale inspired by Greek mythology. The production follows a fearless huntress, a commanding goddess, and a compassionate mortal as their stories of love and destiny collide.
Image credit: Houston Ballet
Beautiful: The Carole King Musical – Experience Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, a stage production that traces the remarkable journey of legendary singer-songwriter Carole King. The show celebrates her rise to fame through the timeless songs that shaped an era of music.
Flip Circus – Step under the big top for Flip Circus, an intimate new show from the Vazquez family featuring world-class performers including illusionist Jimmy Saylon, comedian Misha, juggler Dede Larible, trapeze artist Alexander Lichner, and more.
The Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery Dinner Show – Enjoy an evening of laughter, suspense, and a full-plated dinner as award-winning actors blend into the audience for a mystery that unfolds right at your table.
ARTECHOUSE presents Blooming Wonders: A Celebration of Spring – Step into 26,000 square feet of cutting-edge galleries at ARTECHOUSE Houston to explore Blooming Wonders, a vibrant digital garden that awakens through your movement and play.
Drunk Shakespeare presents Drunk Romeo & Juliet – Witness the Drunk Shakespeare Society’s production of Drunk Romeo & Juliet, where one professional actor downs five shots of whiskey.
From live shows to art festivals, keep the fun going with our roundup of current Houston happenings and cultural experiences. For the latest plans, explore our Things To Do This Weekend in Houston guide.
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